School Bus Driver / South Carolina
2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina School Bus Driver License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Transports students to and from school safely.

What the South Carolina data shows for School Bus Drivers

South Carolina sets the entry bar for school bus drivers at 57 training hours and a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 21 or older. The credential is administered under South Carolina's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

The initial price tag is $48, and renewal costs $37 every 4 years. South Carolina doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
57 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$48
Renewal Fee
$37
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years

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Compare all states for School Bus Driver All South Carolina licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with South Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in South Carolina? ▼
In South Carolina, the license path calls for 57 education/training hours, a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements, and a $48 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in South Carolina? ▼
South Carolina licenses school bus drivers who complete its requirements (57 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the South Carolina licensing board.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to South Carolina from another state? ▼
For school bus drivers, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Federal CDL recognized nationwide. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the South Carolina licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does South Carolina require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for school bus driver licensing in South Carolina. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.